Asset Tracking Device Dynamic Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing asset tracking systems often overlook unpowered assets, such as trailer dollies and dumpsters, making them vulnerable to theft and difficult to locate efficiently, as they are not typically tracked as closely as powered equipment.
Innovation Solution
A battery-operated asset tracking device that can operate in both active and passive modes, transmitting location data and sensor measurements to a remote server using multiple wireless networks, allowing it to function reliably even in areas with unreliable connections and without external power, and adjust data transmission rates based on the asset's motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If unpowered assets are not tracked closely, then battery life is extended and operational cost is reduced, but theft risk increases and location accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the tracking mode between active and passive based on motion detection. When motion is detected, the system switches to active mode with frequent location updates and higher transmission rates. When stationary, it transitions to passive mode with minimal battery consumption, thus preventing theft when needed while conserving battery life during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including data transmission rate, location update frequency, and communication protocol based on the asset's state. In active mode, parameters are set for high-frequency updates and real-time tracking. In passive mode, parameters are adjusted to minimal updates and event-triggered communication, optimizing the balance between security and battery life.
2Measurement precision
If active mode is used continuously for real-time tracking, then location accuracy and theft detection improve, but battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic motion detection and mode switching. Instead of continuous active tracking, it periodically checks for motion and activates high-precision location tracking only when motion is detected. This periodic action maintains measurement precision when needed while extending battery life through intervals of low-power operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies partial action by using full active tracking capabilities only when necessary (during motion events) rather than continuously. During stationary periods, it uses minimal passive tracking, providing sufficient location accuracy for security purposes without the excessive battery consumption of continuous active mode operation.
3Productivity
If high data transmission rate is used, then real-time location updates are achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts data transmission rate based on asset motion state. During active mode, high transmission rates are used to achieve real-time location updates and maximize tracking efficiency. During passive mode, transmission rate is reduced to minimal updates, significantly reducing energy loss while maintaining adequate tracking capability for security purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
A tracking device is described. The tracking device receives, from a management server, pressure measurement thresholds. The tracking device monitors pressure measurements of the asset. Based on the pressure measurements, the tracking device enters an active mode of operation. When operating in the active mode of operation, the tracking device transmits sensor measurements of the asset to the management server. The tracking device determines new pressure measurements of the asset. Based on the new pressure measurements, the tracking device enters a passive mode of operation. When operating in the passive mode of operation, no data is transmitted or received from/to the tracking device to/from the management server.